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NJ Doubles Down on Frozen Waterway Warnings After 2 Deaths

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Monday, February 2nd 2026 at 17:59 GMT by WFMZ-TV
      Locales: New Jersey, UNITED STATES

WARREN COUNTY, N.J. - February 2, 2026 - New Jersey officials are doubling down on warnings to the public to avoid frozen rivers and lakes following a tragic start to the winter season that has already claimed two lives. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) issued a renewed plea today, emphasizing the extreme danger posed by unpredictable ice conditions across the state.

The recent fatalities, occurring within the span of just one week, serve as a stark reminder of the potentially deadly consequences of venturing onto frozen waterways. On January 26th, a man tragically lost his life after falling through the ice on the Passaic River in Little Falls. Just four days later, on January 30th, a similar incident occurred on the Musconetcong River in Warren County, resulting in another fatality.

These deaths are not isolated incidents. Emergency responders throughout the state have reported a significant increase in calls related to people falling through the ice, highlighting a worrying trend. Authorities attribute this rise to the unusually volatile weather patterns experienced in recent weeks - a combination of unseasonably warm temperatures followed by rapid and severe freezing. This creates a particularly treacherous situation, as ice formations become unstable and inconsistent in thickness.

"The recent fluctuations in temperature have created unpredictable and unsafe ice conditions on New Jersey's waterways," the DEP stated in a press release issued earlier today. "Ice thickness can vary greatly from one spot to another, even within a small area, and can change rapidly. What may appear solid can quickly become dangerously thin."

Experts warn that relying on visual assessment alone is insufficient to determine ice safety. Factors such as water currents, depth, and the presence of submerged objects can all contribute to weakened ice. Snow cover can also insulate the ice, masking dangerous thin spots. Furthermore, warmer daytime temperatures, even briefly, can initiate melting that compromises the structural integrity of the ice.

To provide clear guidance, the DEP has released specific ice thickness guidelines. However, officials strongly emphasize that no ice is ever completely safe. These guidelines are intended to offer a general indication of risk, but should not be considered a guarantee of safety.

• Less than 4 inches: Not safe for foot traffic.
• 4 to 6 inches: Safe for foot traffic only.
• 6 to 8 inches: Safe for foot traffic and one or two people.
• 8 to 12 inches: Safe for foot traffic and one vehicle (small car).
• More than 12 inches: Required for a car or truck.

Even when ice meets these thickness requirements, it's crucial to exercise extreme caution. Officials advise avoiding ice near shorelines, docks, or vegetation, as these areas tend to freeze later and are more prone to cracking. They also warn against traveling on ice at night or during periods of inclement weather.

The DEP is urging anyone who witnesses a person in distress on a frozen waterway to immediately contact local authorities or dial 911. Critically, they emphasize the importance of not attempting a self-rescue. "It's natural to want to help someone in trouble," a DEP spokesperson explained, "but attempting a rescue yourself puts you at significant risk. Wait for trained emergency responders to arrive. They have the equipment and expertise to conduct a safe rescue operation."

Beyond the immediate dangers to individuals, these incidents strain emergency services resources. The Warren County Sheriff's Office confirmed today that specialized ice rescue teams were deployed to both recent incidents, diverting personnel from other crucial tasks.

As New Jersey residents navigate the remainder of the winter season, the DEP and local authorities are imploring the public to prioritize safety and heed these warnings. The beauty of frozen landscapes should not come at the cost of a life.

For more information and updates on ice safety, please visit the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection website: [ https://www.nj.gov/dep/ ]